The City of Wheeling lost one of its best public servants with the passing of Rusty Jebbia at age 71. Jebbia spent 44 years with the city in numerous roles, starting as part of Wheeling’s engineering department, moving to assistant city manager and wrapping up his career as the city’s director of public works.

Those who knew him remembered him as a cherished wealth of information, someone always willing to help, even if it was in the dead of night.

“Rusty was an incredibly dedicated public official who loved this city wholeheartedly,” Wheeling City Manager Robert Herron said. “He was involved in just about every aspect of city government and was highly respected by his colleagues and our citizens.”

A great way for Wheeling city government to honor his memory would be to keep Jebbia’s spirit — his love for the city and devotion to helping others — at the forefront of their daily business. Jebbia’s work ethic served this city well for decades. Emulating it would serve it well for decades more.

Rest in peace, Rusty. This city, and its people, will miss you.